Choosing a replacement window for your home
So, the time has come to “bite the bullet” and start looking around the market for a suitable replacement window supplier with good prices.
But before you head out into the wilds of the double glazing maze, here are a few pointers as to what you could look for in a replacement window design.
Replacement Window key Features
I suppose it would be fair to say that double glazed window styles come in four easily recognisable appearances, which you can read more about in the previous link, but you should take into account the quality & type of the materials used in the construction of the unit.
Timber, especially softwoods can be cheap to buy & fit. However, you are going to keep an eye on them constantly for deterioration, such as shrinkage, expansion, wood rot, painting and general loss of performance.
UPVC replacement windows are quite a safe bet. Not excessively expansive in comparison to other material such as composites, aluminium or hardwoods.
Most suppliers can deliver an energy efficient multi-chambered unit and also offer it in a range of styles or colours.
Pat attention to the fixings if you are going for some super cheap upvc windows. Hinges, handles, seals, frame reinforcing may be compromised in the face of the manufacturer keeping their costs down. You don’t always get what you pay for, but don’t expect to get a top quality unit for a rock bottom price.
Some units are made from recycled UPVC. Make sure you get a guarantee on the colour not fading if you go for recycled – some whites will go yellow quite quickly.
Composite windows are a typically a little more upmarket, but so is the price. However, bot composite double glazed windows together with aluminum framed products offer some really good looking and hard wearing options.
It’s a good idea to go to a comparison website like https://www.doubleglazingpriceguide.org.uk/. There you can get a better idea of what’s in the market, including price guides.